What is Shintou in Japanese Katana terminology?

"Shintou" (新刀) refers to the Japanese swords that were made during the period from 1596 (the first year of the Keicho era) to 1763 (the 13th year of the Bunka era). During the Shintou period, due to the development of transportation, swordsmiths with various techniques spread widely to areas such as Osaka and Edo, and in particular, swordsmiths of the Mino tradition spread throughout the country. Furthermore, during the Shintou period, new methods were researched, and in addition to the use of Nanban iron, new blade patterns such as ""Touranba"" (濤瀾刃) and ""Juzuba"" (数珠刃) were created.

This period in Japanese sword making is characterized by the spread of swordsmiths with various techniques to different parts of the country, thanks to the development of transportation. This resulted in a greater diversity of styles and techniques in sword making. The use of Nanban iron and the creation of new blade patterns such as Touranba and Juzuba reflect the innovative spirit and technical prowess of the swordsmiths during this period. The Shintou, with their distinctive characteristics, represent a unique phase in the evolution of Japanese swords."